Hanifee Recalled as Tigers Fill Valdez Spot

Hanifee Returns to Detroit Roster

Right‑hander Brenan Hanifee has been summoned from Triple‑A Toledo for the third time this season, taking the vacant spot left by Framber Valdez. The 28‑year‑old reliever has logged 13.2 innings across 14 games in his previous two stints with the Tigers. In May he posted a solid 2.00 ERA, allowing just two runs in 11 innings while striking out six and walking two.

Valdez’s Bereavement Leave and Return Timeline

Lefty starter Framber Valdez landed on the bereavement list after a family death and is already traveling back from the Dominican Republic. Manager AJ Hinch indicated Valdez could be reinstated as early as Saturday, easing the Tigers’ pitching depth worries. Hinch confirmed the team was heading into a game short‑handed before the recall.

Game Preview: Tigers at Angels

Saturday’s matchup against the Angels kicks off at 10:07 p.m. Pacific in Anaheim. Detroit fans can follow the action on Detroit Sports Net, as well as on radio frequencies 97.1 FM and 107.9 FM.

Tigers left‑hander Tarik Skubal (5‑4, 3.06) is set to take the mound for one of three crucial starts before the Aug. 3 trade deadline. His upcoming stretch is part of a 13‑game run that will shape the team’s playoff prospects and could influence president Scott Harris’s decisions at the deadline. Skubal’s recent outings have been solid, giving Detroit reason to believe he can carry momentum.

RHP Grayson Rodriguez (3‑2, 7.55) lines up for the Angels, still re‑establishing himself after elbow surgery wiped out the 2025 season. He’s limited to seven starts this year due to back tightness but posted a 5.1‑inning outing against Minnesota after returning from the injured list, allowing three runs on six hits. Rodriguez’s 96‑mph fastball remains a plus pitch, supported by a sharp changeup and slider.

The Tigers look to capitalize on Hanifee’s fresh arms as they face a pivotal stretch against the Angels, with both clubs aiming to gain ground in the wild‑card hunt. Expect a fast‑paced contest on the West Coast as each team tries to shore up its rotation and bullpen ahead of the trade window. Fans can tune in and see if Hanifee’s return provides the spark Detroit needs to stay in the playoff picture.